Psychiatric Guidelines

What to do:

• Do take all medication as directed or listed on the bottle.
• Do complete your own reading and research on the medication you are taking to improve your understanding of the medication and possible side effects. 
• Do contact your prescriber if you have any concerns, questions or possible side effects from medication.
• Do tell your prescriber what other medication you are taking including medication from other prescribers, over the counter, herbal/natural supplements and/or birth control.
• Do tell your prescriber if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding, as some medication may not be safe during those times. 
• Do write down your questions or concerns for your prescriber prior to your appointment so you remember to ask during your appointment.
• Do notify your prescriber if you have trouble filling the prescription or unable to pay for the medication.
• Do notify your prescriber if your medication is lost or stolen.
• Do store your medication in a cool, dry, safe place out of the reach of children and pets.
• Do lock up medication that is at risk for being abused. 
• Do supervise children and teens prescribed medications to be sure they take medication properly. 
• Do use pill boxes to keep medication organized and to be sure you took your medication.
• Do set an alarm on your phone or clock to remind you to take your medication.
• Do use the same pharmacy for filling prescriptions and ask the pharmacist if you have questions related to your medication.
• Do speak to your local pharmacist on the proper way to dispose of unused or unwanted medication.
• Do plan ahead for refills so you don’t run out of medication.
• Do speak to your prescriber if you are scheduled for surgery or bloodwork for further directions on your psychiatric medication. 
• Do attend all scheduled therapy and medication appointments.

What not to do:

• Do not stop taking, skip doses, increase the dose or change the way you take your medication without first speaking with your prescriber.  
• Do not share your medication with others or use someone else’s medication.
• Do not use medication that is expired or stolen. 
• Do not cut, crush or chew your medication unless directed so from your prescriber or pharmacist.
• Do not lose or misplace your medication.
• Do not use alcohol or recreational drugs with your medication, unless approved by your prescriber.

Know Your Medication “Rights”:

        Before taking any medication, be sure that it is:

• The right medication
• For the right person
• In the right amount
• At the right time
• Taken the right way